You're walking along the pavement, minding your own business,
when suddenly a loud beep comes from behind. As you turn around a large
vehicle scurries by. Not something you encounter much in western
countries, but in Beijing, its an everyday occurrence.

Sometimes the cars are on their way to legitimate parking
spaces, bizarrely located on or behind large pavements (pictured below
right). You even have to pay for the
privilege of parking on the pavement in many areas. Others are just
taking a short cut (above and below left) or are completely lost (above right).

So be warned, Beijing's pavements are not just for
pedestrians, it seems. Please don't have a heart attack the first time you
encounter car sneaking up behind you.